Moreno: "Using Lee Kang-in in a Different Position Would Be Reckless"

"If I were to deploy Lee Kang-in in a position different from his role at his club, I believe that would be a rash and reckless choice on my part."

Following a satisfying victory in his debut match as head coach against Ecuador, Robert Moreno, interim head coach of the South Korean national football team, emphasized that he will deploy Lee Kang-in (Atlético Madrid), a key figure in the second-line attack, in his most optimal position for the friendly against Uruguay.

During the official press conference held today (the 27th) at the Seoul World Cup Stadium ahead of the friendly match against Uruguay, Moreno stated, "As Uruguay is a strong team, we expect intense pressure similar to the match against Ecuador." He added, "Uruguay also suffered a defeat in their previous match, so they will be burning with a desire to win to prove their true capabilities. We, too, must show our best performance."

Having decisively defeated Ecuador 3-0 on the 24th, the South Korean national team (FIFA ranking 32nd) will face Uruguay (FIFA ranking 20nd), their second opponent in the four consecutive A-matches scheduled for September and October, at the Seoul World Cup Stadium at 8:00 PM on the 28th.

Head coach Moreno first highlighted that the 30 players called up to the national team are well-following his guidance.

He said, "It is not easy to share a coach's football philosophy and ideas with the players in a short period. The coaching staff made every effort to convey them," and added, "As they are exceptional players, they are immediately implementing them on the pitch based on their individual experience and abilities."

He explained, "Since the coaching staff cannot point out every single situation, it is also important for the players to find solutions, make judgments, and play on their own," and noted, "Players must find solutions through their own judgment, and selecting players with such capabilities is the role of the coaching staff."

When asked about how to "utilize" Lee Kang-in, who attended the press conference alongside him, Moreno replied, "I will let him enjoy football in the position he does best."

Lee Kang-in sat out the match against Ecuador for recovery purposes, but by appearing at today's official press conference, he is expected to start against Uruguay.

Lee Kang-in plays both as an attacking midfielder and a winger for Atlético Madrid.

Moreno firmly stated, "What I expect from Lee Kang-in is for him to show the national team the best form he displays at his club," adding, "If I were to place him in a position different from the one where he is currently enjoying playing and showing his best, it would rather be a rash and reckless choice on my part."

He further stated, "I will ensure that Lee Kang-in, like his other teammates, shows his absolute best and enjoys playing football on the pitch."

Regarding the squad composition for the Uruguay match, Moreno stated, "My principle is that the players themselves must be the first to know who will play. The players are the main characters," and added, "I cannot disclose whether a specific player will start."

However, he explained, "Since we have to play four matches in a short period, we must consider the players' physical conditions and injury statuses," and noted, "As there are also players who have joined the national team for the first time, I want to give everyone an opportunity. The starting lineup can be confirmed directly on the day of the match."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.